Summer moves, especially in Arizona, are bound to be hot and sweaty. Packing and unpacking, tossing the old, donating some good and putting everything into a new apartment can be cleansing and a fresh start.

Getting organized early will make your move easier. Work with your new property manager to understand the rules for a successful move.

Talk about:

• Your walk-through: Sched­ule this early so you can get your new keys and paperwork out of the way before you begin your move. Keep all copies of your paperwork somewhere safe.

• Times for the move: Find out if your move-in or -out hours are limited. Let your manager know when you are planning to move in.

• Elevator: There may be a designated service elevator to make your move easier.

• Moving companies: Let the on-site team know if you are using a moving company and which service.

• Parking for loading/unloading: Find out whether there are parking restrictions or easy-access places to park during the move.

• Trash removal: You'll have lots of boxes, packing supplies and junk before and after your move. Check to see where you can put extra trash.

Move-in checklist:

• Power and communications services: You don't want to be without TV or your e-mail, even for a weekend! Be sure to contact utility and service providers to disconnect your current services and connect new ones in your apartment. These appointments should be made in advance.

• Movers: If you plan to use movers, secure them early. Weekends book quickly.

• Mail: Be sure to complete the change-of-address form with the post office to ensure your mail follows you; you don't want to miss any bills.

• Essentials box: Pack one box of clothes, hygiene and medical essentials, and chargers for the day of the move. If you don't get around to unpacking all your boxes, you will have a change of clothes, toothbrush and powered phone for the first night in your new apartment.

Tom Simplot is president and CEO of the Arizona Multihousing Association.